Soli Mgmt: In Pursuit of Paris
“New York taught me to do things even when you feel scared—to walk into rooms you don’t feel you belong in and take up space anyway.”
Text: VIONNE Magazine | Photographer: Blair Bartlett
Creative Director: Soli Productions Management | Wardrobe Stylist: House Of Soli
Model Agency: Soli Mgmt | Creative Director: Solitha Shortte
Wardrobe Credits: Sharon Myde
From Halifax to Paris
In a city where fashion breathes through every street and runway, a new wave of talent is emerging from an unexpected place—Halifax, Nova Scotia. Guided by Soli MGMT and Soli Productions, these models have evolved from local runways to the global stage of Paris Fashion Week, carrying with them a distinct presence shaped by discipline, community, and ambition.
Captured on the streets of Paris while traveling and working alongside photographer Blair Bartlett, this series reflects more than a moment in fashion—it documents a movement. Each image speaks to the journey behind it: the castings, the training, the uncertainty, and the breakthrough. Together, they represent not only personal success, but a collective rise—one that is quietly placing Atlantic Canada firmly on the international fashion map.
Interview with Soli Mgmt Models
VIONNE: Can you tell us about your journey from Halifax to walking in Paris Fashion Week?
Keilidh: I started modelling in Spring 2024 and quickly fell in love with it. I spent all my free time researching and practicing. That led me to New York that fall, which already felt like a dream. Then, being cast for Paris Fashion Week around my one-year anniversary of modelling felt like a full-circle moment I’ll never forget.
Chancey: I started modelling at 14 after being scouted by Soli Management. From the beginning, I made sure to show up, train consistently, and put in the work—weekly coaching sessions and even extra one-on-one training to perfect my walk.
In April 2023, I attended a casting without knowing where it would lead, only to later find out I had been selected to walk in Paris Fashion Week—for my aunt’s final collection. It was such a surreal and emotional moment. Since then, I’ve returned to Paris multiple times, walking for designers like A_Kith and even representing a designer from my hometown.
Maya: My journey started in Halifax with smaller shoots and local projects. I wasn’t even sure how far modelling could take me. I signed with Soli mgmt just a few months before going to Paris, so everything happened quickly. Coming from a smaller city, fashion can feel far away, so walking in Paris Fashion Week was a really proud moment and showed me how fast things can change when you stay ready.
VIONNE: How did your experience working in New York prepare you for Paris—if at all?
Precious: New York was my first international booking, and it came fast. I remember feeling imposter syndrome working alongside elite models so early in my career. But I reminded myself I wouldn’t have been given the opportunity if I wasn’t ready. New York taught me to do things even when you feel scared—to walk into rooms you don’t feel you belong in and take up space anyway.
Ava: The travel experience from New York helped a lot—learning to navigate a fast-paced city, manage time, and handle pressure gave me confidence going into Paris.
Keilidh: New York taught me to expect the unexpected. Being able to adapt to anything is huge in this industry.
VIONNE: What did it feel like representing Halifax on such an international stage?
Maya: It meant everything. Coming from a smaller place makes moments like that feel even bigger. It reminded me that you don’t have to come from a major fashion city to succeed.
Chancey: It felt surreal. I’m so grateful to be part of a movement that’s putting Nova Scotia on the map.
Ava: It’s incredibly rewarding. Representing Halifax makes me proud of where I come from and what we bring to the global stage.
VIONNE: Can you share a memorable backstage moment—chaotic, funny, or emotional?
Precious: Backstage is always chaotic. During Halifax Fashion Week, I had to run between locations in heels—and at one point, I ended up running barefoot down the street just to make it on time!
Keilidh: In New York, I slipped slightly on the runway and came off stage upset, thinking I had ruined everything. But the support I received backstage from other models meant everything. I’ll never forget how safe I felt in that moment.
Maya: Right before going on stage in Halifax, my heel broke. I thought I wouldn’t be able to walk, but another model offered me her heels—and they fit perfectly. It was stressful at the time, but it taught me how important it is to stay calm and adaptable.
VIONNE: What does diversity and representation mean to you in the fashion industry today?
Ava: Representation is about being proud of who you are—leaning into what makes you unique and finding beauty in it.
Precious: As a Filipina, representation means everything to me. I grew up in a culture where beauty standards didn’t always include people who looked like me. Learning to embrace my identity and now represent others like me is something I’m incredibly proud of. Hearing that I inspire others means the world.
Keilidh: Diversity is huge. Seeing people who look like you in this industry is inspiring and expands what’s possible.
VIONNE: What have you learned about yourself through these experiences?
Chancey: I’ve learned the importance of self-love. Comparison can destroy you. Everyone’s journey is different, and letting go of timelines changed everything for me.
Ava: Each experience builds more confidence—not just in my abilities, but in who I am. I’ve learned that even a little fake confidence can go a long way. Pushing yourself outside your comfort zone shows you what you’re capable of.
VIONNE: What keeps you grounded in such a fast-paced, high-pressure environment?
Precious: My fellow models keep me grounded. Having genuine friendships in such a competitive industry makes everything more meaningful—and more fun.
Chancey: Knowing my worth and staying focused. Rejection isn’t failure—it’s redirection.
Ava: Breathwork helps me stay calm and present. Finding what works for you is key in high-pressure environments.
Keilidh: The community around me keeps me grounded. I’m lucky to travel with my closest friends.
Maya: Staying present and not overthinking keeps me balanced. I’ve learned to trust my path.
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